Summary: Firmware and sROM on 3000/400

From: John P. Speno <speno_at_swarthmore.edu>
Date: Wed, 23 Aug 1995 13:20:36 -0400 (EDT)

My query was:

        Previous posters have foretold of the dangers of updating the
        firmware on the 3000/400 series machines without first getting an
        sROM update to 2.1. However, the Digital UNIX 3.2c package, which
        contains the Firmware 3.3 update kit, I received has no warning or
        errata sheet that mention that. Does anyone know if I'll need to
        get the sROM update in order to use this firmware? I suppose I could
        always try it...

This answer from GRANDLE_at_acodbob.larc.nasa.gov says:

        I just had one of my people try it here with a v1.0 and 6.2 firmware
        and the machine is still alive, so it looks like the problem with
        the 3000/400 is only with the 6.1 firmware.

        Bob Grandle

        Ps. I would recommend the 2.1 srom upgrade if you can get it done(
        prom is about $6 if you can get dec to sell it to you.

So it looks like it can be done, but this answer from David Harrold
<harrold_at_camg2.mfg.mke.ab.com> will make you think twice:

        I was one of the people that got bit by this problem. I would get
        the SROM update before doing the firmware update. There is *no* way
        to go back once the machine is broke, outside of replacing the
        motherboard and maybe the I/O module.

        I don't think the risk is worth it.

As for me, I put in a call to Digital Service for the sROM upgrades. Thanks
and ttfn.

-- 
John P. Speno, speno_at_swarthmore.edu, Swarthmore College Computing Center
	     "There is no wisdom greater than kindness."
Received on Wed Aug 23 1995 - 19:40:38 NZST

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